The Organic & Non-GMO Report Newsletter

Experts: focus on the positives when talking to conventional farmers about organic agriculture

Criticizing conventional agriculture will turn farmers against organic, say speakers at Organic Confluences Summit

Mail-order DNA, DIY gene tinkering: looming catastrophe?

Gene editing technology has become accessible to biohackers of all ages and stripes—sending ripples of alarm through academic and non-scientific circles alike. “To unleash something deadly… could really happen any day now,” said Dr. George Church, leading synthetic biologist. Using tools like Crispr-Cas9, hackers “glue” DNA fragments (easily purchased on Science Exchange, a Craigslist for […]

New research shows risks to insects from Rothamsted’s GMO “fishy” camelina

A camelina plant genetically engineered to produce omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA may reduce the learning ability of bees and other insects. United Kingdom-based Rothamsted Research genetically engineered the oilseed crop to produce the two fatty acids because they are not produced by most plants. Rothamsted’s aim was to establish a plant-based production facility […]

Monsanto stops Bt GMO soybean launch in U.S.

Monsanto has halted indefinitely introduction of Intacta 2 Xtend soybeans to U.S. farmers—a second-generation product boasting multiple genetically modified Bt proteins and tolerance to dicamba. The company cites a “lack of product demand from growers” but entomologists suggested insect resistance is the more probable   reason. First-generation Intacta RR2 PRO soybeans, with their single Bt protein […]

Monsanto name gone but Bayer’s commitment to GMOs and pesticides remains

Bayer and Monsanto are completing their $66 million merger or “marriage made in hell” as activists call it, and Bayer will ditch the Monsanto name. “Bayer will remain the company name,” Bayer said in a statement. “Monsanto will no longer be a company name. The acquired products will retain their brand names and become part […]